Meet the SNL Cast of 2024: A Guide to the Hilarious and Talented Comedians

Since its inception in 1975, Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a breeding ground for some of the most iconic comedians in the entertainment industry. The show's cast has evolved over the years, with new faces joining and departing regularly. As we approach the 2024 season of SNL, let's meet the talented individuals who will be keeping us entertained with their razor-sharp wit and comedic genius.

Current Cast Members

• Michael Che (Head Writer and Co-Anchor of "Weekend Update")
• Colin Jost (Co-Anchor of "Weekend Update")
• Ego Nwodim
• Heidi Gardner
• Mikey Day
• Cecily Strong
• Bowen Yang
• Chloe Fineman
• Kenan Thompson (Longest-running cast member)
• Andrew Dismukes
• Punkie Johnson

New Cast Members for 2024

In keeping with SNL's tradition of fresh faces, four new comedians have been added to the cast for the upcoming season. These rising stars are:

• Ayo Edebiri
• Molly Kearney
• Michael Longfellow
• Nagareshwar Talluri

Insights into the 2024 Cast

Diversity and Inclusivity

The 2024 SNL cast reflects the show's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The new cast members represent a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity brings fresh energy and unique perspectives to the show's comedy and ensures that a broader audience feels represented.

Rising Comedic Talents

All four new cast members have established themselves as promising comedians in their own right. They have performed at comedy clubs, festivals, and on popular late-night shows. Their talent and experience will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of SNL.

Tips and Tricks for Getting on SNL

While joining the cast of SNL is a dream for many aspiring comedians, it's important to recognize that the competition is fierce. However, there are a few tips and tricks that can increase your chances of success:

• Develop your own unique voice and style. SNL is always looking for original and fresh comedic perspectives.
• Get as much stage experience as possible. Practice your material regularly to hone your comedic skills and build confidence.
• Network with comedy professionals. Attend industry events, connect with agents and managers, and engage with the comedy community online.
• Create a strong online presence. Showcase your comedy on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram to gain exposure and build a following.

Importance of SNL

SNL has a profound impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.

• Pioneering Comedy: SNL has been a pioneer in sketch comedy, pushing the boundaries of what's considered acceptable and hilarious.
• Cultural Influence: The show's sketches and characters have become iconic and have influenced popular culture for decades.
• Career Launchpad: SNL has launched the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy, including Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, and Tina Fey.
• Social Commentary: SNL often tackles important social and political issues through its comedy, providing a unique perspective and sparking dialogue.

How to Watch SNL

• Live Broadcast: SNL airs live on NBC on Saturdays at 11:30 PM ET.
• Streaming: The show can also be streamed live and on-demand on Peacock, NBCUniversal's streaming service.
• Syndication: SNL episodes are syndicated on cable channels such as Comedy Central and TBS.

Cast Member Profiles

Michael Che

• Born: May 5, 1983, in New York City, NY
• Known for: His sharp wit and incisive commentary as co-anchor of "Weekend Update."
• Background: Began performing stand-up comedy in 2009. Joined the SNL cast in 2013.
• Awards: Won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series (2019, 2020).

Colin Jost

• Born: June 29, 1982, in Staten Island, NY
• Known for: His dry humor and chemistry with Michael Che at "Weekend Update."
• Background: Started out as a writer for SNL in 2005. Became co-anchor of "Weekend Update" in 2014.
• Personal Life: Married Scarlett Johansson in 2020.

Ego Nwodim

• Born: March 10, 1990, in Baltimore, MD
• Known for: Her versatile acting skills and ability to play a wide range of characters.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2018. Has appeared in films such as "Shiva Baby" and "The Starling."

Heidi Gardner

• Born: February 2, 1983, in Kansas City, MO
• Known for: Her eccentric characters and comedic timing.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2017. Has also appeared in the TV series "Superstore" and "The Mindy Project."

Mikey Day

• Born: March 20, 1980, in Orange County, CA
• Known for: His impressions and his writing contributions to the show.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2013. Has also appeared in films such as "Brigsby Bear" and "The Lovebirds."

Cecily Strong

• Born: February 8, 1984, in Springfield, IL
• Known for: Her hilarious characters and her ability to create memorable impressions.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2012. Has also appeared in the TV series "The Awesomes" and "Schmigadoon!"

Bowen Yang

• Born: November 6, 1990, in Brisbane, Australia
• Known for: His sharp wit and his ability to portray a variety of characters.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2019. Has also appeared in the TV series "Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens" and "Space Force."

Chloe Fineman

• Born: July 20, 1995, in Berkeley, CA
• Known for: Her uncanny impressions and her ability to create memorable characters.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2019. Has also appeared in the TV series "Grace and Frankie" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."

Kenan Thompson

• Born: May 10, 1978, in Atlanta, GA
• Known for: His long tenure on the show and his versatile acting skills.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2003. Has also appeared in the TV series "Kenan & Kel" and the film "Fat Albert."

Andrew Dismukes

• Born: September 1, 1995, in Austin, TX
• Known for: His observational humor and his ability to connect with a younger audience.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2020. Has also appeared in the TV series "The Other Two" and "Chad."

Punkie Johnson

• Born: August 9, 1992, in Los Angeles, CA
• Known for: Her energetic performances and her ability to play a wide range of characters.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2021. Has also appeared in the TV series "A Black Lady Sketch Show" and "Harlem."

Ayo Edebiri

• Born: October 3, 1995, in Boston, MA
• Known for: Her sharp wit and her ability to write and perform sketch comedy.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2023. Has also appeared in the TV series "Dickinson" and "Big Mouth."
• Fun Fact: Edebiri is the first Black woman to be a head writer for SNL.

Molly Kearney

• Born: January 18, 1994, in Portland, OR
• Known for: Her unique comedic perspective and her ability to break gender stereotypes.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2023. Has also appeared in the TV series "Shrill" and "Ziwe."
• Personal Life: Kearney is openly non-binary and uses they/them pronouns.

Michael Longfellow

• Born: February 15, 1992, in Bethesda, MD
• Known for: His clever writing and his ability to portray a variety of characters.
• Background: Joined the SNL cast in 2023. Has also appeared in the TV series "Superstore" and "The Good Place."
• Awards: Won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for his work on "Saturday Night Live."

Nagareshwar Talluri

• Born: November 19, 1996, in Hyderabad, India